Visit California: Coastal Highway Trip | 7 Nights – 8 Days

Upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), your driver will transfer you to your hotel.

After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Take a stroll through Santa Monica, visit Venice Beach, or relax after your flight.

Overnight in Los Angeles.

After breakfast and check-out, begin your coastal journey with a scenic drive north to Santa Barbara, often called the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean-style charm.

Distance: ~95 miles / Duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes

On arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk along State Street, visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission, or unwind at the beach.

Check-in to your hotel. Overnight in Santa Barbara.

After breakfast and check-out, continue north along the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the world.

Distance: ~200 miles / Duration: ~4 hours

Recommended Stops:

• McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – An 80-foot waterfall cascading into the Pacific
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Redwood hiking trails
• Bixby Creek Bridge – One of California’s most iconic bridges
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Coastal trails and wildlife viewing

Spend the afternoon surrounded by cliffs, ocean views, and redwoods.

Check-in to hotel. Overnight in Big Sur.

Day 4: Big Sur to Monterey

After breakfast and check-out, drive north to Monterey, a coastal town known for its rich marine life and waterfront history.

Distance: ~29 miles / Duration: ~45 minutes

Visit the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll along Cannery Row, and explore Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Check-in to hotel. Overnight in Monterey.

After breakfast and check-out, continue your coastal drive to Half Moon Bay, a peaceful town with scenic beaches and small-town charm.

Distance: ~91 miles / Duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes

Spend the afternoon walking along Half Moon Bay State Beach, browsing local galleries, or dining at a farm-to-table restaurant such as It’s Italia.

Check-in to hotel. Overnight in Half Moon Bay.

After breakfast and check-out, drive north to San Francisco, your final stop on the coastal journey.

Distance: ~30 miles / Duration: ~40 minutes

After check-in, enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Suggested: Explore Union Square, stroll along the Embarcadero, or enjoy a sunset view from Twin Peaks.

Check-in to hotel. Overnight in San Francisco.

After breakfast, embark on a private half-day city tour of San Francisco.

Tour Highlights:

• Golden Gate Bridge – Iconic photo opportunity
• Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39 – Sea lions and waterfront attractions
• Lombard Street – The famously crooked street
• Alamo Square – View the Painted Ladies with the city skyline

The rest of the day is free for personal exploration or relaxation.

Overnight in San Francisco.

After breakfast and check-out, your driver will transfer you to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) for your departure flight.